Ways to send, remit and transfer money to the Philippines

We’ve been here before – a relative or a friend from in another country wants something from the Philippines (be it the latest issue of magazines or some food or that old bayong that your lola used to use in the palengke).

They want to send money but want something safe, secure and fast.

You can do the usual Western Union or Xoom way or you can try these 5 alternatives.

1) SMART PADALA

For those who are Smart Telecom subscribers, this is very ideal. It’s safe, secure and fast! International remittance service linked to the recipient’s mobile phone. It’s affordable, convenient and fast! For more details, visit their website here.

Smart has ceased its operations with Smart Padala – or at least that’s what their website is “not saying”. The previous page linked to this section is now showing a 404 error.

2) GLOBE G-CASH

This works pretty much like Smart Padala but is exclusive for Globe Telecom subscribers. G-cash is like a virtual card that you keep on your mobile phone and can be used to make purchases even online. Visit their website for more details.

3) iKobo

The company is primarily a money transfer service. Customers can send money online using their credit or debit card (with a Visa or Mastercard logo) or their bank account. The recipient gets a Visa pre-paid card via FedEx and they can withdraw the remitted money through any of the Visa or Mastercard capable/affiliated ATMs around the country. Visit their website for more details.

4) LBC

Primarily known in the Philippines as a courier and package service, the company is now capable of sending, transferring or remitting money to the Philippines from the US and other countries. Remittances can be done via ATM withdrawals, 24-hour door to door remittance called Speedcash or Speedcheck or a Direct Bank Deposit.

5) LUCKY MONEY

This service only applies to US residents sending money to the Philippines. Customers can send money online with any US checking account, bank issued Visa or Mastercard Credit Card. Recipients can then get the money either through a bank to bank transfer, online credit to their bank account or a bank transfer or money order. They can also do door to door, direct deposit or pick up at any BDO (Banco De Oro has taken over Equitable PCI banks) branch. Get more details from their website here.